The Benefits of Eating Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has arguably become the hottest superfood of the moment. That's why we put it in all of our delicious paleo brownies. And, here are three of the top benefits of eating it: |
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1. Coconut Oil Is Rich in MCTs (Medium Chain Triglycerides)
Getting MCTs into your diet is key. The unique structure of medium-chain fatty acids make them easier to digest, and a great natural source of energy. In addition to that, MCTs have antiviral and antibacterial properties that are great for promoting good overall health and a strong immune system. They also offer the digestive system a break because they of the way they are digested and, as a result, are highly correlated with better gut health.
2. Coconut Oil Can Help You Burn More Fat and Keep You Slim
The medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut oil can increase how many calories you burn compared to the same amount of other fats, according to research cited and collated by the Nutrition Authority. “One study found that 15-30 grams of MCTs per day increased 24 hour energy expenditure by 5%,” writes Nutrition Authority. The moral? “The medium chain triglycerides in coconut oil have been shown to increase calories burned over 24 hours by as much as 5%, potentially leading to significant weight loss over the long term.” Not only can coconut oil help you burn fat, it can also keep your calorie count down at the same time! MCT consumption is known to have an appetite reducing effect. In one study, cited by Nutrition Authority, varying amounts of medium and long chain triglycerides were fed to 6 healthy men. The men eating the most MCTs ate 256 fewer calories per day, on average.
3. Populations That Eat a Lot of Coconut Oil Are Super Healthy
Coconut oil is somewhat ‘exotic’ in Western diets. But, according to Nutrition Authority, populations that consume coconut oil as a staple ingredient in their diets are amongst the healthiest in the world. One example of such a population is the Tokelauans in the South Pacific. They get over 60 percent of their calories from coconuts and have absolutely no evidence of heart disease.
The bottom line?
Eating coconut oil is correlated with improved gut health, enhancing fat burning, reducing the risk of heart disease and weight loss. We’ve never seen more evidence for the use of the word: “Superfood!”